#BeatsByHer Vol.3 – The Future Starts Now

Music is the great uniter. An incredible force. Something that people who differ on everything and anything else can have in common. ― Sarah Dessen

In this third installment of #BeatsByHer, TCI is thrilled to introduce you to three female artists with stories that reflect the diverse backgrounds they each represent. Despite their differences, they share one common belief – music has the power to change things. Ruby, Christy and Macie are part of Dallas’ dynamic and growing Dallas music scene. In an industry still heavily dominated by men, these ladies are making a name for themselves with a stylish mix of heart, passion and hard work.

In a very real interview with The City Influencer, they share their personal style, their love of Dallas culture and what the future has in store for them.

RUBY CAVAZOS “Ruby Red”

Genre: My personal style is actually something that I haven’t been able to pin down just yet because I’m so open to the idea of exploring. I sing all types of music from R&B to Latin so it’s a wide variety. My style truly reflects a mash up of my love for music.

How did you get your start in music?

As a kid, I always sang at my church. I didn’t start singing professionally until I got signed by Bishop Jakes as a GRACE girl in early 2015. I started writing and working on my own music that same year and the rest is the beginning of my history.

What is it like being an artist in the Dallas music scene?

My experience has been like no other. There is so much opportunity here to grow and share. If you are true to what you do, people will stop and listen.

How would you describe your personal style?

I would say, I am more on the GLAM side. I’m very girly; I love heels, dressing up and makeup of course.

Your thoughts on women in music today?

They are hustlers! Dallas female musicians in particular are really wanting to get a message out. They are strong, passionate, loving and they share these feelings through their art.

Your musical inspiration?

My Momma! She is the very first voice I ever heard. Her passion with any lyric is incredible. You feel every word, every note sung. Till this day, she’s still my favorite singer. I really wish I could sing like her; shes simply amazing!

What can fans expect to see from you within the next two years?

My new EP, in both Spanish and English and a tour! Stay tuned for a behind-the-scenes look as we capture footage on the road.

Genre: As a DJ, I would say that my musical genre is a little more on the diverse side. My style is heavily influenced by my mother’s music collection from the 80s & 90s, along with some the newer, more alternative R&B and electronic sounds. In other words, I can and will play anything!

How did you get started in the music industry?

Christy and her mom

Aside from my mother being DJ Spinderella, I come from a very musically inclined family. It would have been difficult to not be interested in music at least a little bit. Whether it was my grandparents, my uncle, or my mom, music was always being played and vinyl was always in the house. Initially, I would watch my mom DJ and travel around the world back in the 90s. When I got old enough to ask questions, it soon became something that I was knew I was deeply interested in too.

What is it like being an artist in the Dallas music scene?

So far, my experience in the Dallas music scene has been mostly positive! Moving from New York, I would have never known the amount of culture that exists in this city. I’m constantly in awe of how much creativity and raw talent this city provides on a daily basis and I’m glad I am able to contribute in some way.

What challenges have you faced as an aspiring artist?

I guess the most recent challenge I’ve faced is realizing that not everyone is on your side and rooting for you during your “come up”. When I started out a little under a year ago, I was very naive when it came to some of the people I put my trust in; especially when it came to my career goals. Now, I’m a little more versed in the industry as well as more focused and driven than ever. It’s easy to cut off the extra slack when you’re on trajectory.

Your musical inspiration? I love Blue-eyed Soul; The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, Michael McDonald, Hall & Oates. On the more recent side, I enjoy Anderson Paak, Frank Ocean, Kaytranada, The Internet..etc. My tastes and influences are so varied and I think it has a lot to do with my mother. She always had me listening to so many different genres growing up.

What can fans expect to see from you within the next two years?

Hopefully doing the exact same thing I’m doing now but on a far bigger scale! Dallas is home and has shown me so much love so far, but I really want to travel and start getting out there on a more national level. Maybe if I get far enough, I can bring it back to Dallas and hopefully show the world how creative this city is.

MACIE

Genre: Dance/Pop

Your thoughts on women in music today?

Over the last 10 years, it feels as though the music business has been extremely focused on everything but the voice. Within the past two years however, the industry has changed and I love seeing and hearing the non-cookie cutter looks and voices with the artists today. I love that things aren’t so narrow minded and that we are going for the real deal type of woman; someone everyone can relate to, understand and love. This gets my soul excited about the future of music and makes me want to be a part of it even more.

How did you get started?

I started singing at a very young age, traveling every weekend from the age of 12 and on. I performed in many shows across Texas. Some people don’t know this but I started out singing country music. I didn’t explore other genres until I was 17. I have over 10 years of training with multiple vocal instructors and worked hard, stretching my voice to 4.5 octaves on my own. Music is what I live for and I will never let it go.

Young Macie

What’s it like being a musician in the Dallas scene?

I love the mix of different musicians/artists in the scene here. The Dallas music family is definitely close. I do see room for growth though when it comes to artists and bands being compensated for their hard work. This is a huge issue within the music scene all over, but I have noticed it here in Dallas a lot.

What challenges have you faced as an artist?

As an aspiring artist my weight and the confidence to be myself and comfortable in my own skin has been a struggle. I recently went through huge changes in my personal life by having Gastric Bypass surgery. I was unhappy with my self image and it affected my everyday life including how I treated others which led to depression. I could never love anyone to the fullest because I was so consumed by what I thought were my faults. This is an ongoing struggle with many people no matter what size you are. Acknowledging this struggle, I feel has changed my entire outlook on life and made me a stronger independent woman.

Who inspires you musically?

I’ve had many musical inspirations. One artist I’ve always looked up to is Christina Aguilera. She is always moving forward and lets no one step in her way. She is such a strong person and very inspirational. I’m also inspired by her mentor, Etta James.

What can fans expect next from you?

It’s a “Secret”. Follow me on social media to find out what my next move will be. : )